Antique French Brown Demijohn "bonbonne" 15¾"

From the east of France, this lovely amber-colored brown demijohn glass vase dates from the end of the eighteenth / early nineteenth century. Made by hand with the technique of "verre soufflé" or blown glass, these artisan pieces make a lovely display with a large branch or flowers or simply as an arrangement on their own. Made from blown glass, with bubbles and imperfections from the glass making process. The bottles were originally used to store wine, hence the dark glass to keep the light from spoiling the contents.

Also known as "Dame Jeanne" bottles. In 1347, Queen Jane, Queen of Naples and Countess of Provence (La Reine Jeanne) was expelled from her kingdom and sought refuge in Provence. As she passed through the village of Grasse, a thunderstorm hit, and she asked a local man for shelter. He was a glass blower. The Queen asked the gentleman to demonstrate how he blew glass. Nervously, in royal company, he overdid the blowing and created an enormous bottle! She loved the bottle and suggested he name them Lady Jane bottles or Dame Jeanne.  Shop Similar.